Natural Remedies for Depression in Menopause

You might think that natural cures for depression would mean herbal preparations. The word 'natural' sounds mild and gentle, which is why women are often drawn to the idea of using natural approaches to depression during menopause, rather than antidepressants.

It's definitely a good idea to explore alternatives to antidepressants, but if it's something natural you're after, you could do better to use exercise to tackle depression, and make sure you have a healthy menopause diet. Both of these measures can help with mild to moderate depression.

St John's Wort

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St John's wort is extracted from the hypericum, a yellow-flowered plant, and has been widely used as a natural remedy for depression.

But how effective is it - and do the possible side effects of St John's Wort outweigh its benefits?

According to trusted source Patient.co.uk, trials on this herbal remedy have not had clear-cut results, and the evidence is 'inconsistent and confusing'.

The conclusion? Although it might be worth trying St John's Wort if your depression is mild, it's best avoided in more severe cases.

Either way, you should talk to your doctor about how to deal with depression, and not treat yourself with over-the-counter natural remedies for depression.

Side Effects of St John's Wort

St John's Wort can have powerful effects in the body, and carries these side-effects and risks:

• Side effects include mouth dryness, dizziness, digestive problems, tiredness and sensitivity to sunlight.
• St John's Wort can interact with other drugs and reduce their effect. Don't take it if you're already taking: warfarin, cyclosporin, oral contraceptives, anticonvulsants, digoxin, theophylline, or certain anti-HIV drugs.
• This herbal remedy can also interact negatively with SSRI anti-depressants like Prozac, and with triptan drugs which are used to treat migraine.
• It's not known whether St John's Wort is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be wary of taking any substance, whether it's a dietary supplement or a herbal preparation, unless the benefits are proven and you are fully aware of any possible side effects.

There are many useful and natural treatments for depression to consider, including psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, exercise and diet.

It's also a great idea to have general lifestyle appraisal and look out in particular for ways to relieve stress.

Too much stress can make you feel overwhelmed and helpless, which can contribute to depression, and it's well worth trying to get your stress levels down as much as possible.

Doing this is one of the most natural remedies for depression during menopause that you can try.

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